The Audi S3 has acquired a significant improve, with a rise in output to 329bhp and the addition of a torque splitter system, which has been taken from the most recent Audi RS3 mega-hatch.
Both the four-door saloon and five-door hatchback variations of the efficiency mannequin additionally obtain a number of minor styling adjustments, in keeping with the latest facelift of the common A3.
The revisions are supposed to spice up the efficiency and dealing with of the S3, which we tested last year in prototype form, to assist it preserve tempo with the BMW M135i and Mercedes-AMG A35.
The S3 retains the Volkswagen Group’s EA888 turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, however its peak energy has been boosted by 25bhp and its peak torque raised from 295lb ft to 310lb ft.
Additionally, the seven-speed computerized gearbox now has a extra closely compressed clutch plate, which permits it to deal with greater torque hundreds from relaxation and is alleged to halve shift occasions underneath full load. That all ends in a 0-62mph time of 4.7sec, trimmed by 0.1sec. Top pace stays 155mph.
Audi has additionally retuned the turbo. During part-throttle acceleration, it’s going to preload to fixed revs, which reduces lag when it’s known as upon.
The important mechanical change, nonetheless, is the addition of the RS3’s torque splitter, which permits for absolutely variable torque distribution between the rear wheels.
Audi has additionally added a brand new Dynamic Plus driving mode, which makes use of the torque splitter to ship as a lot energy as doable to the rear axle after which to the rear wheel on the skin of a nook, making the automobile extra liable to oversteer.
Other adjustments embrace bigger brakes, tweaks to the progressive steering system and new suspension wishbones with stiffer pivot bearings that permit for extra detrimental wheel camber.
Audi’s S suspension, which lowers the physique by 15mm in contrast with the common A3, is customary on the S3. As customary, the S3 sits on 18in wheels, though two new 19in choices can be found, as are grippy Falken sport tyres.
The styling adjustments are comparatively minor, together with a revamped entrance grille and new aspect air intakes on the entrance, together with a revamped entrance spoiler. The reworked lights embrace 24-pixel daytime working lights with 4 selectable ‘signatures’.
There’s additionally a brand new rear bumper design particular to S fashions and 4 spherical exhaust pipes, that are optionally out there with a titanium silencer.
Inside, there’s a brand new shifter design, reshaped air vents, customary ambient lighting and a brand new backlit laser-cut material panel within the entrance doorways.
The new S3 will probably be out there to order shortly. UK pricing has but to be finalised, however it’s going to value from €55,600 (£47,500) in Germany, in contrast with an entry value of £45,285 for the present mannequin.
